For a long time, I relegated lip liner to the background of my beauty bag. A product I almost considered accessory: pretty on application, but rarely reliable in longevity. Between formulas that smudge, those that disappear after a coffee, or migrate throughout the day, it was hard to give it a real place in my routine. And then everything changed the day I discovered tinted lip liners, the famous “lip stain”.
The strong comeback of lip liner
In recent years, lip makeup has evolved. We are no longer just looking for a beautiful color, but also impeccable staying power and a natural, comfortable finish. This is precisely what tinted pencils/markers bring to the table. Halfway between lip ink and classic liner, they combine precision, pigmentation, and most importantly… impressive staying power.
Unlike traditional lipsticks, often put to the test by meals or drinks, these formulas are designed to anchor in the skin, especially on the lip line, an area that tends to fade first.
Why tinted pencils change everything
Their strength? A pigmentation that “stains” the skin literally, rather than just depositing material on the surface. Result: a color that stays in place for hours, a sharp outline that does not feather, a perfect base to extend the wear of a lipstick.
Another significant advantage: their versatility. They can be worn alone for a natural and structured effect, or paired with a balm for more comfort, even with a lipstick for a more sophisticated finish. A quick tip: to preserve their effectiveness, it’s better to store them tip down. This prevents the tip from drying out and ensures consistently smooth application.
My top pick: the extreme staying power from Huda Beauty
The first product that changed my mind is Huda Beauty’s famous felt-tip pencil. It went viral in the summer of 2025, quickly winning over long-wear makeup enthusiasts. And for a good reason: its formula is simply formidable. Its lightweight texture allows for easy application, with the ability to blend before it dries for a very modern blurred effect. But once set, the color stays put.
And when I say “stays put,” it’s not an exaggeration. After a full day, between coffees, meals, and conversations, the line remains intact. Even better: even after an oil makeup remover, the outline may still be slightly visible. A true test of endurance. The only downside is its slightly thick tip, which can make application less precise, especially for beginners. This gem available in 8 shades remains one of my current favorite products.
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© Huda
Beauty
Lip Contour Lip Stain Crayon Ã
lèvres – HUDA BEAUTY – 26€
My revelation: perfect precision with NYX
It was this detail that prompted me to look for an alternative with a finer tip… and that’s where I discovered my second top pick, from NYX Professional
Makeup. And honestly, I didn’t expect such a high level of performance. Its ultra-fine tip allows for precise strokes, ideal for perfectly reshaping the lip line. The formula, on the other hand, has nothing to envy to much more expensive products. Tested in real conditions: a full day, three meals, no touch-ups. The result? Impeccable wear from morning till night.
The matte finish sets quickly, without a powdery effect, making it very easy to pair with other products. Whether with a balm or a lipstick, it stays stable and does not migrate. And the icing on the cake: its price, particularly accessible (11.95€), makes it an excellent value for money. Available in 12 shades.

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NYX
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